DPW Says Its Still Combating ‘Unprecedented’ Pothole Season

Mayor Cavalier Johnson fills a southside pothole with asphalt. Photo taken June 25, 2026 by Sophie Bolich.

In a typical year, the Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) expects to field about 10,000 service requests for potholes. Less than halfway through 2026, it has already received 18,000.

City officials gathered on the South Side Thursday to address the surge and ask residents for patience as crews work through the backlog.

“This is one of the most challenging pothole seasons that Milwaukee has faced in quite some time,” said Mayor Cavalier Johnson, who attributed the rise to “volatile weather conditions” throughout the winter and spring. “Unfortunately, it generated a level of demand that significantly exceeds our normal operations.”

Johnson said crews are working overtime — including on weekends — to fulfill requests in order of urgency. “We understand the frustration that comes with encountering potholes and waiting on repairs,” he added.

The heavier workload has also slowed response times. The city has previously aimed for a three-day turnaround; however, that average has since stretched to two weeks, according to DPW Commissioner Jerrel Kruschke.

For residential streets, the wait can be longer still; the city’s current triage approach prioritizes arterial streets and those with the most severe damage.

After peaking in April and May, the volume of requests has begun to decline. DPW has completed more than 10,000 service requests, leaving an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 remaining.

“Our folks are resolving about 200 to 250 per day, so we’re making headway,” Kruschke said.

After remarks, Johnson and Kruschke donned hi-vis vests and joined crews in repairing a pockmarked section of S. 12th Street with hot mix asphalt.

The method yields a stronger, more permanent bond with existing pavement, according to Kruschke, but can only be used throughout the warmer months. DPW works year-round to patch potholes, relying on a cold patch compound during the winter.

Earlier this year, DPW’s effort received support from the Milwaukee Brewers, which donated $27,500 toward the purchase of an asphalt hot box to keep hot mix asphalt warm and usable throughout the workday.

The department also plans to trial an AI-powered system to detect potholes and last year purchased new equipment to fill potholes more efficiently.

Kruschke concluded his appearance with a plea to the public: ditch the distractions. “If you focus on driving, a lot of times you can avoid potholes on the roadway,” he said. “We know they exist. We know it’s frustrating. There are hazards out here and we’re fixing them as fast as we can.”

Potholes can be reported by calling 414-286-2489, submitting an online service request, or using the MKE Mobile Action app.

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